Community Voices Heard at Budget Chat 2025 : Mayor Patrick Brown and Regional Councillors Rowena Santos and Paul Vicente led the event
Over 75 residents of Brampton gathered at Fan’D’Flame Restaurant on Tuesday evening for Budget Chat 2025, a special event organized by the City of Brampton to gather input from residents of Wards 1 and 5 on the proposed 2025 City Budget. The session provided an open platform for residents to directly engage with city leaders and staff on issues that matter most to their neighborhoods.
Mayor Patrick Brown and Regional Councillors Rowena Santos and Paul Vicente led the event, emphasizing the importance of community collaboration in shaping a budget that reflects local priorities. “This is your city, and this budget is about addressing your needs,” Mayor Brown stated in his keynote address. “Tonight’s discussions will help us continue building a Brampton that is affordable, livable, and vibrant for all residents.”
Residents raised a variety of concerns, which were directly addressed by city officials, including Roger Higgs, Director of Enforcement, Councillor Rowena Santos and Councillor Paul Vicente, who provided valuable insights into community concerns.
- Residential Rental Licensing (RRL) and Occupancy Limits: Roger Higgs, Director of Enforcement, addressed concerns about rental unit safety and overcrowding. The Residential Rental Licensing (RRL) Pilot Program continues to play a key role in ensuring compliance and accountability among landlords. Councillor Rowena Santos highlighted the recent introduction of occupancy limits as an extension of the RRL program. “This initiative strengthens the program and directly addresses the issue of overcrowding in rental units. By implementing stricter guidelines and enforcement, we are safeguarding the quality of life in our neighborhoods and protecting tenants,” Santos explained.
- Road Safety: Safer Drivers = Safer Roads: Road safety remains a high priority for Brampton residents. Roger Higgs emphasized the expansion of automated speed enforcement and stricter traffic violation penalties near schools and residential areas. Councillor Santos reiterated her commitment to road safety, referencing her motion, “Safer Drivers = Safer Roads,” presented during the budget discussions. “This initiative focuses on reducing dangerous driving behaviors and ensuring that our roads are safer for everyone, from children to seniors,” she stated.
- Investments in Community Services and Active Living : As Chair of Community Services, Councillor Santos expressed her pride in the budget’s focus on keeping residents active and healthy.
- Free Recreation for Seniors: “This year marks a milestone as we introduce free recreation programs for all seniors over 65, ensuring our elders remain active and engaged,” said Santos.
- Youth Engagement: The Century Gardens Youth Hub is set to provide vital resources for young people, offering them a space to stay engaged and out of trouble
- .Largest Recreation Centre: The Embleton Recreation Centre, the largest in Brampton’s west end, will be a cornerstone for community engagement in Ward 5. Santos remarked, “This facility will offer top-tier recreational opportunities for families in my community.”
- Snow Removal Violations:
Residents expressed frustration with snow removal violations, to which Councillor Paul Vicente responded with empathy and assurance. “We understand the challenges snow creates for mobility and safety,” he said. “The City is increasing monitoring during snow events and has streamlined the process for reporting violations. We are also exploring partnerships with local contractors to ensure faster and more effective snow clearing.”
Regional Councillors Rowena Santos and Paul Vicente emphasized key projects included in the proposed 2025 Budget, such as:
- The new Embleton Recreation Centre in Ward 5, which will serve as a hub for community activities and fitness.
- The transformative Riverwalk Project and downtown revitalization in Ward 1, expected to drive economic growth and housing opportunities.
- Enhancements to parks, cricket amenities, and outdoor ice rinks to promote active living.
- Quote from Rowena Santos Regional Councillor:
“As Chair of Community Services, I am pleased that the proposed budget prioritizes health and well-being of residents. Expanded amenities for cricket, park enhancements, outdoor ice rinks, and the Century Gardens Youth Hub are just some examples. The new Embleton Recreation Centre in the west end will be a huge benefit for my residents in Ward 5. Our continued investment to build the second hospital and supporting the Medical School are strong commitments that prioritizes improved healthcare in Brampton. Finally, major infrastructure projects like the Riverwalk and downtown revitalization in Ward 1 will drive economic growth and create housing opportunities for generations to come.”
“Brampton is growing rapidly, and these investments ensure that we are meeting the needs of our expanding community while preserving the character and safety of our neighborhoods,” Councillor Paul Vicente stated.
Gian Paul, Chairperson of the Flower City Friends Club (FCFC), shared his thoughts on the proposed budget and the importance of such community discussions. “The 2025 Budget is a step in the right direction. The emphasis on affordability, healthcare, and infrastructure projects demonstrates the City’s commitment to addressing the real needs of residents,” he said.
Paul also praised the value of events like Budget Chat 2025. “These forums are vital for fostering transparency and giving residents a voice in decisions that impact their lives. It’s encouraging to see city leaders actively listening to the community and incorporating feedback into their plans,” he added.
The City of Brampton’s proposed 2025 Budget focuses on affordability, infrastructure improvements, and better healthcare access while ensuring the efficient delivery of essential services. Residents can continue to share their feedback and learn more about the budget process at brampton.ca/budget.